(KPL) In response to the widespread flooding that has devastated over 486 villages across eight provinces, the Government of the Lao PDR and UNICEF have mobilized essential water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) supplies to provide immediate relief. Nearly 1.1 million chlorine tablets, over 250 water buckets, 4,000 bars of soap, 250 water containers, 5 drinking water tank of 1,000L capacity, 200 packs of sanitary pads,400 plastic bowls and 5 rolls of UNICEF tarpaulins have been distributed to ensure safe water access and improve hygiene for affected families.

Over the weekend, vital WASH supplies were delivered to flood-affected districts in Vientiane, while earlier last week, initial support reached Luang Namtha Province. These efforts aim to mitigate the heightened risk of waterborne diseases such as diarrhea and cholera, which are a significant threat in the aftermath of the floods.

Mr. Bilal Durrani, UNICEF Country Representative to the Lao PDR, highlighted the urgency of providing these supplies: “UNICEF is very proud to support the Government of the Lao PDR in this difficult time. We are working closely and hand-in-hand with all partners to support affected families, particularly children. Access to clean water and proper hygiene is a fundamental protection measure in emergencies to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks, especially among the vulnerable children.” 

In emergencies, access to clean water and adequate sanitation is critical to preventing outbreaks of disease. Children, in particular, are at higher risk of illness due to their developing immune systems and reliance on others for care. The provision of clean water, soap, and hygiene materials is crucial to ensuring their health and safety in these challenging circumstances.

Dr. Pompaseurth Sayyaseng, Director General of the Ministry of Health’s Department of Hygiene and Health Promotion, reinforced the importance of quick action: “Our priority is to safeguard the health of communities, especially children, who are most at risk during flood emergencies. The timely support from UNICEF and partners enables us to provide the necessary resources to prevent the spread of disease and protect the well-being of our people.” 

Families in affected areas are urged to use the chlorine tablets provided to purify their water and wash their hands with soap regularly to prevent illness. Ensuring that children have access to clean water and a safe environment is key to protecting their health as communities recover from the floods.

UNICEF and the partners will continue to work closely with the Government of the Lao PDR to ensure that critical WASH services reach the impacted communities during this emergency.

KPL